How Do You Read Complex Time Signatures?
Complex time signatures are read the same way as simple time signatures. The bottom number sets the beat for the piece, and the top number tells how many beats there are per measure. Complex time signatures become more difficult because you cannot break down the beats per measure like simple or compound time signatures. Look in the first measure of your piece to the right of the clef and key signature. You will find two numbers, one on top of the other, that represent the time signature of the piece. Note the bottom number of the time signature. A 2 indicates that the half note sets the beat; a 4 indicates that the quarter note sets the beat; an 8 indicates that the eighth note sets the beat. This number is important to keep in mind when beginning to count the beats in each measure. Read the top number of the time signature. Complex time signatures are most commonly written with prime numbers on top. There are exceptions to this rule; however, a 5, 7, 9 or larger prime number on the to
